All ear infections display the same symptoms regardless of the cause. Listed below are some of the signs to watch for at home.

Shaking of the Head

Scratching at the head or ears

Constant rubbing of the head and ears on the floor or ground

A distinct redness or irritation in the ear canal

Liquid leaking from the ears

Brown or Yellowish discharge present in the ears

Foul smell emanating from the ear

Severe pain whenever the ears are touched or petted

Visiting the Veterinarian – Dog Ear Infection Diagnosis

At the first sign of symptoms an appointment should be made with a veterinarian. It is also important to remember that you should never put anything into your dogs ears before seeing the veterinarian. This could result in additional symptoms including neurological which include head tilting and walking in circles.

For those dogs that experience frequent ear infections or ear infections resistant to treatment, it is highly imperative to seek out the underlying cause. In most cases, a physical examination can deliver this information. Upon examination, small ear canals, excessive hair in the ear and floppy pinnae can easily be seen. In addition, foreign objects or tumors are also easily visualized with a physical exam.

Food allergies are usually ruled out with a food trial. During a food trial, a special hypoallergenic food is fed for a period of 8-12 weeks. The dog is monitored during this time to see if its symptoms improve.

Blood tests and skin tests are used to rule out Atopy or seasonal or inhalant allergies. These are performed just as they are in humans and can provide specifically what your dog is allergic to.

One or two blood tests may be given to determine if a certain endocrine organ is functioning properly. Usually, other symptoms present themselves besides ear infections to indicate there may be an endocrine problem.

Treatment of Ear Infections

Discovering the root cause of the ear infection is first and foremost, followed by treatment. In dogs with a food allergy, those foods should be avoided; those with Atopy will be required to take medications in order to control their symptoms and will most likely be on these medications for the rest of their lives. These medications commonly consist of corticosteroids, antihistamines, omega-3 fatty acid supplements and cyclosporine.

Periodic treatment of skin and ear infections with antibiotics, antifungals, shampoos and topical rinses is usually necessary. The course of treatment varies for each dog and depends on how severely allergic they are and how well they respond to therapy.

In general, an ear infection can be cleared up with a combination of oral medication and medication inserted in the ear. However, it is imperative that you clean your dogs ears once or twice a week to remove excess buildup of medication which can retain debris and impede the healing process. An ear infection is usually treated for two weeks, although some cases may take longer. If the infection does not clear up, a swab or ear culture may be needed for further testing.

How to Prevent Ear Infections

Treat any underlying diseases that might be present.

Dry ears completely after bathing

Dry your dogs ears completely after swimming

Do not use water or cleaner inside your dogs ears unless absolutely necessary and always make sure to dry them thoroughly

Remember: Keeping your dogs ears dry is the one key element in preventing as well as treating ear infections.

An experience veterinarian with great passion for writing, Heather Fox loves to share her knowledge about Dog Illness Diagnosis with fellow pet lovers. You can find more of her lessons including Dog Flea Allergy Dermatitis Prevention on Clivir.com.

For the dog with simple diarrhea that is still eating and drinking and feeling fine, home management may be the only treatment needed. For 24-48 hours, feed boiled, skinless, boneless, chicken breast with cooked white rice. If possible, feed small meals every 2-4 hours. Bland food fed in frequent, small amounts gives the intestines time to calm down and readjust. Once diarrhea has resolved, gradually begin re-introducing the normal food. If the diarrhea does not resolve or comes back after reintroducing normal food, it is time to see the veterinarian for more treatment options.

There are several options for treatment of diarrhea.

The first method is by antibiotics. Metronidazole is the most frequently used. This antibiotic helps remove any abnormal bacteria.

Oftentimes, medications such as Kaolin and Pectin are given in conjunction with Metronidazole. Together, these medications work quickly to both stop diarrhea as well as firm the stool.

Probiotics are sometimes used also. These are beneficial bacteria that help restore the balance of normal bacteria in the intestines. Some probiotics are used to treat diarrhea and others can be used to prevent diarrhea.

Another option is bland food. Giving your dog white rice and boiled chicken allows the intestines to calm down and readjust to a normal balance.

It is very important to remember that while our dogs are members of our family, they should not be given over the counter medications such as Pepto-Bismol, Immodium or Kaopectate without the express consent of a veterinarian. In most cases, mild diarrhea will clear within a few days. If however it does not, a re-visit to your veterinarian is needed for further testing as well as exploring other alternative methods of treatment. Available below is a detailed video which discusses the treatments for simple, mild diarrhea.

Furthermore, if your dog displays bloody or tar like stools, other symptoms, or is just not feeling well it is very important that you seek the assistance of a veterinarian immediately. Dogs that may have other systemic illness will begin to get worse more rapidly without professional care.

Preventing Diarrhea

Listed below are several ways you can prevent your dog from having diarrhea:

Keep trash, human food, and medications locked up and out of reach of your dog.

Do not allow your dog to partake in human food or table scraps.

Never leave your dog alone outside. Supervising your dog outdoors will ensure they do not eat anything they shouldn’t.

In order to implement a change to your dogs regular diet, you must mix small amounts of the new food with the old, gradually working your way up to only serving the new food. This gradual introduction allows the intestines time to adjust. In most cases a period of about seven days is all that is needed, however some dogs may need longer.

If you take your dog to board or stay with someone else, take your own dog food.

Deworm your dog once every month. Most available heartworm medications will automatically do this.

This article is meant to provide general information. It is in no way meant to replace a visit to a trained veterinarian.

An experience veterinarian with great passion for writing, Heather Fox loves to share her knowledge about Dog Illness Diagnosis with fellow pet lovers. You can find more of her lessons including Dog Atopic Dermatitis Causes on Clivir.com.